Robin Hood Gardens: Re-Visions

As a part of the debate regarding the potential demolition of Robin Hood Gardens (1968–72) and the denial of listing by English Heritage, the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) is presenting an exhibition that shows this emblematic housing estate, its place in London’s cultural and urban landscape and the way of life inside its walls.

Alison and Peter Smithson’s building, often considered notorious, is presented to us by contrasting contemporary with historic documentation. The life inside this public housing project is shown in more detail in a thoughtful documentary film by Martin Ginestie, in the archival images and documentation by University of Greenwich students, and also in the recent photographs by Ioana Marinescu.

This show seeks to highlight the significance of the project and refocus attention on its architectural and social importance. It also illustrates the tense relationship and the gap that exists between defenders of modern architecture who fight to preserve canonical buildings and the residents of the housing estate; those that most want to see the building demolished and replaced with new more conventional housing alternatives.